Thursday, June 21, 2012

Rodgers Insists Players Must Stake Claim For Starting Place

New Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers insists that every member of his squad will be given the chance to stake their claim for a place in the side, as he familiarizes himself with his new team.

The former Swansea boss, who took over Liverpool following the recent departure of Kenny Dalglish, reassured his players that they would be given the chance to shine, despite the club being linked with a number of potential signings, including Gylfi Sigurdsson and Gaston Ramirez.

As reported by Goal.com, Rodgers underlined his new approach, but admitted that he is looking to make improvements to a Liverpool side who finished the Premier League in eighth place last season.

“The cycle with Kenny was a terrific cycle, but I'm a different tactician and a different type of person and that will give all the players an opportunity to perform,” he said.

“I've got to assess all the players to see if they fit into the philosophy.

"I know what we've got, more or less, in the squad, but I also know there are a couple of signings that could really improve what we do.

"I think there are a few players who can come in and improve the group straight away. I know the types of player I need to bring here to make us function well and that's something myself, the club and the board will look at.”

One player who will be hoping for a second shot is Joe Cole, who spent last year on loan at French side Lille, after a disappointing first season at Anfield.

Cole, who joined Liverpool on a free transfer from Chelsea in 2010, struggled with life on Merseyside, but is aiming to rectify that under Rodgers.

“Joe is a very talented player,” Rodgers said. “He's obviously gone out to Lille and done very well. He has the opportunity to come back here and show his qualities.

"For me, it's fresh for everyone. Of course, I know lots of the players and their qualities, but Joe is obviously a player who'll want to come back and show his worth to the group."

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